Name: Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness); 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, as needed

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.9 from 50 reviews

Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe

There is something truly magical about bold, vibrant flavors wrapped around tender, juicy chicken, and that is exactly what this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe delivers. With its tangy citrus marinade balanced by smoky spices and a touch of heat, this dish brings an explosion of Cuban-inspired sunshine to your grill, turning a simple meal into a festive celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a backyard gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite that showcases the soul of Cuban cooking with every delightful bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work together in perfect harmony, each contributing depth, vibrancy, and a pop of authentic Cuban flair. Every component is essential whether it’s the zesty citrus juices that tenderize the chicken or the aromatic spices that build layers of flavor and a stunning color.

Freshly squeezed lime juice: Bright acidity that tenderizes and lifts the marinade with tangy notes.
Freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds sweetness and balances the lime, creating the signature citrus blend.
Olive oil: Helps distribute the marinade evenly and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
Garlic, minced: Infuses savory pungency that complements the spices beautifully.
Ground cumin: Provides earthy warmth that is a staple in Cuban seasoning.
Smoked paprika: Brings rich, smoky depth and a lovely reddish hue.
Dried oregano: Offers herbaceous, slightly bitter brightness to balance the citrus.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
Black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and sharp bite to the marinade.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick, adjustable to your preferred heat level.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender, juicy canvas that soaks up every flavor beautifully.
Fresh cilantro, chopped: Zesty finishing touch that adds a vibrant green color and fresh aroma.
Lime wedges: Serve on the side for an extra burst of citrus just before eating.

How to Make Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

The heart of this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe lies in its marinade. Whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl until the mixture is perfectly balanced and fragrant, ensuring each spice is fully integrated to create that bright, smoky, spicy blend that works wonders on the chicken.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Next, place your chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor absorption. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4 to 6 hours—this downtime lets the chicken soak up those vibrant citrus and spice flavors, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites after grilling.

Step 3: Preheating the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This temperature range ensures you get a perfectly charred outside while locking in the juiciness inside. A hot grill is key to achieving those signature grill marks and that tantalizing smoky aroma synonymous with Cuban-style barbecue.

Step 4: Grilling the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and gently shake off excess liquid—discard the leftover marinade for safety. Place the breasts onto the hot grill and let them sizzle for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C); this guarantees your chicken is cooked through and juicy. The spices and citrus caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding incredible flavor and color.

Step 5: Resting and Serving

Once grilled to perfection, transfer the chicken onto a platter and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This crucial step lets the juices redistribute, making every bite moist and tender. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro and serving alongside lime wedges to squeeze over the top, intensifying the dish’s zesty brightness with every mouthwatering bite.

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Adding freshly chopped cilantro brings a burst of herbal freshness and vibrant green color that contrasts beautifully with the warm hues of the grilled chicken. Lime wedges are perfect for guests to add an extra splash of citrus zing, enhancing the bold marinade flavors and elevating each bite with a lively tang.

Side Dishes

This Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with traditional Cuban sides like black beans and rice, sweet plantains, or a crisp green salad. These sides complement the bold flavors and keep the meal balanced and satisfying, making your dinner feel like a true Cuban feast no matter where you are.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive presentation, slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on a colorful platter surrounded by grilled vegetables such as peppers and onions. Alternatively, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy cilantro-lime rice or tucked into warm corn tortillas for a delightful Cuban-inspired wrap. These creative serving ideas make the dish versatile and fun for gatherings or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftover grilled Cuban chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Properly stored, the flavors remain impressive, and the chicken retains its moisture, making for tasty next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance or stretch your meal further, freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to label and date the package, so you know when it’s ready to enjoy again. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to keep the texture at its best.

Reheating

When ready to reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slower reheating helps maintain the juicy texture and prevents toughness. A quick squeeze of fresh lime after warming will help revive the bright, fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay even more moist and flavorful on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few minutes longer to cook through.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

While 2 hours is the minimum, marinating for 4 to 6 hours yields the best flavor infusion. You can marinate up to 24 hours, but beyond that, the acid from the citrus may start to break down the texture too much and make the chicken mushy.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem. You can use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven. Just watch closely to get that nice char and avoid overcooking. The marinade still works perfectly regardless of cooking method.

Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the smoky and citrus flavors, but it’s totally optional. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder taste without losing the essential character of the recipe.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes! Making the marinade ahead of time is a great way to save prep minutes. Just whisk it up and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to marinate the chicken. Fresh garlic and citrus juices keep the flavors bright even after sitting for a bit.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is a joyous celebration of bold flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation that results in a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for bringing a taste of the Caribbean to your table with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. I can’t wait for you to embrace the bright citrus, smoky spices, and juicy chicken that make this recipe so special—go ahead, fire up that grill and enjoy!